1. Baroque Period

2. Stylistic Characteristics of the Baroque Period
Much of the Baroque keyboard music was written for harpsichord and clavichord
Many forms were used in baroque composition including: binary, fugue, variations, and invention
The major/minor key system replaced the modes of the medieval period, making it possible to modulate from one key to a related key
The use of melody (a single melodic idea) was implemented
A single musical piece tended to project a single mood or expression of feeling
Use of basso continuo (figured bass)- partially improvised accompaniment played on a bass line

3. Johann Sebastian Bach Impact on Period: Extensive use of counterpoint
Important compositions
Composition #1: Tocatta and Fugue in D Minor (1703)
Composition #2: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (1723)

4. Antonio Vivaldi
Impact on Period: Music represented a clarity of form and concise themes
Year range for important compositions in this period:
Composition #1: Gloria (1715)
Composition #2: The Four Seasons, Concerto No. 1 in E Major, Op. 8 (1723)

5. George Frederic Handel
Impact on period: Known for the oratorio (a large scale concert piece)
Year range for important compositions in this period:
Composition #1: Hornpipe from The Water Music (1717)
Composition #2: Messiah, For unto us a child is born (1741)